This is the Josuian Tsukushi Mochi. Inspired by the kinako mochi that Chairman Mori’s grandmother made during his childhood, this sweet is designed to introduce loved ones to Fukuoka and evoke nostalgia for those far from home.
The mochi was wrapped in paper, furoshiki-style, in a container measuring about 5 x 3 x 2.5 cm, holding three pieces of mochi topped with kinako and a separate kuromitsu sachet.
The mochi was crafted from Kyūshū’s hiyoku rice, grown in the Chikushi Plain and surrounding areas, and coated with kinako made from tamahomare, a rare soybean variety.
Upon tasting, the three bite-sized pieces of mochi separated easily, each bite perfectly picking up the kinako and kuromitsu. The mochi was soft and smooth, with a gentle bounce and slight chewiness. The kinako provided a rich, roasted nuttiness that paired exceptionally well with the deep, molasses-like sweetness of the kuromitsu. The combination of these three elements created a flavour profile reminiscent of warabimochi, with the slightly firmer texture and subtle rice flavour of the mochi standing out as a key distinction. The quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite, making this a truly delicious and satisfying treat—chewy, nutty, and a delightful pick-me-up.
This Josuian Tsukushi Mochi contained 3 pieces. It was produced in Japan and received as a gift from family visiting Fukuoka, Japan in 2024.